Medicare and Skin Cancer Screenings: What You Need to Know
As summer approaches and brings with it sunnier days, more of us find ourselves enjoying the great outdoors. For those over 65, this increase in sun exposure can come with a common but serious concern: skin cancer. Fortunately, early detection of skin cancer significantly improves the outcomes of treatment, and Medicare covers many key services to help with this.
Medicare Coverage for Skin Cancer Detection
Medicare provides coverage for medically necessary services that are crucial in detecting and treating skin cancer. This includes doctor visits when a case is suspected, biopsies, and various treatments related to eliminating the cancer. It's important to remember that cost-sharing applies, meaning that you may need to pay a portion after meeting your deductible.
- Preventive care discussions during your annual wellness visit are covered. It's a great opportunity to talk to your doctor about any skin concerns you have.
- Medicare typically does not cover routine full-body skin exams unless a doctor identifies a suspicious lesion. Therefore, self-checks and reporting changes to your physician are essential.
- Cosmetic procedures, such as the removal of benign moles or skin tags, are not covered under Medicare.
Additional Coverage and Considerations
While Original Medicare does not cover sunscreen or preventative skincare products, some Medicare Advantage plans might offer additional benefits. It's a good idea to check the specific details of your plan to see what's included.
Keep in mind that experimental or non-FDA-approved treatments are excluded from Medicare coverage as well.
Staying proactive about your skin health is key. If you have any questions about what is covered, consider reaching out to your Medicare advisor or checking with your plan provider to clarify what’s included in your specific plan. Taking these steps can help ensure you have access to the care you need to maintain healthy skin, especially during the sun-filled summer months.